RACING Queensland has today renewed its commitment to support racing in the Mackay region, announcing free entry at Ooralea Racecourse for Saturday’s meeting.

Chief Executive Officer Darren Condon said it was business as usual at Ooralea and urged Mackay locals to take advantage of the free entry on Saturday and support the club.

“Racing Queensland will ensure the people of Mackay can continue to enjoy racing in the region at what is a great facility at Ooralea Park,” Mr Condon said.

“There have been some issues regarding finances which are currently being assessed, but it is business as usual on track and it would be great to see a strong attendance on Saturday.

“Our primary focus at the moment is looking after the club and wider racing community to ensure there is little impact on racing in the Mackay region.

“I will be travelling to Mackay to meet with staff and stakeholders to conduct a briefing as to where we go from here and how Racing Queensland will support the club.

“The Ooralea Park Facility underwent a $7.4 million upgrade in 2012 and it will continue to be an important part of Racing Queensland’s future vision.”

Racing Queensland recently appointed Cairns Jockey Club CEO Graham Thornton to act in the interim role at the Mackay Turf Club.

Mr Thornton joined Mr Condon in calling on the community to rally behind the club and said this Saturday’s meeting was the perfect starting point.

“We are urging stakeholders, members, staff and the community as a whole in Mackay to get behind this support the club,” he said.

“Mackay has a fantastic multi-million dollar sporting and community asset that we want the entire community to be involved in.

“We are really going to have to focus on decreasing our expenses and driving revenue.”

RQ MEDIA RELEASE